Neutralization in electro-chemical activation systems

ABSTRACT

A neutralization cell is provided which may be used to increase a pH level of a chlorine solution. The neutralization cell includes a neutralization anode, a neutralization cathode, an inlet, and an outlet. The neutralization anode and the neutralization cathode are positioned to divide the neutralization cell into a middle area between the neutralization anode and the neutralization cathode, an anode area on a side of the neutralization anode furthest from the neutralization cathode, and a cathode area on a side of the neutralization cathode furthest from the neutralization anode. The inlet directs the chlorine solution into the neutralization cell by directing an incoming flow of the chlorine solution into the anode area. The outlet directs the chlorine solution out of the neutralization cell by directing an outgoing flow of the chlorine solution from the cathode area.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.16/478,157, filed Jul. 16, 2019, which is a National Stage ofInternational Application No. PCT/US2018/015144, filed Jan. 25, 2018,which claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62/450,677,filed Jan. 26, 2017, the contents of each of which are hereinincorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Chlorine and alkaline solutions are used as cleaning solutions,particularly by washing machines (e.g., commercial washing machines).Stocking chlorine and alkaline solutions for use by washing machine ispossible. However, shipping chlorine and alkaline solutions andmaintaining an inventory of chlorine and alkaline solutions can beexpensive and use valuable resources (e.g., inventory space). It wouldbe advantageous to make and use chlorine and alkaline solutions on-siteand on-demand to address the issues with stocking chlorine and alkalinesolutions. Making and using chlorine and alkaline solutions on-sitepresents a number of difficulties, including the reduction of pH levelof chlorine solution during electro-chemical activation. Thesedifficulties must be addressed to provide effective on-site generationof chlorine and alkaline concentrated solutions.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This summary is not intended to identify key features ofthe claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid indetermining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

In one aspect, a neutralization cell is provided for increasing a pHlevel of a chlorine solution. In an embodiment, the neutralization cellcomprises a neutralization anode; a neutralization cathode, wherein theneutralization anode and the neutralization cathode are positioned todivide the neutralization cell into a middle area between theneutralization anode and the neutralization cathode, an anode area on aside of the neutralization anode furthest from the neutralizationcathode, and a cathode area on a side of the neutralization cathodefurthest from the neutralization anode; an inlet configured to directthe chlorine solution into the neutralization cell by directing anincoming flow of the chlorine solution into the anode area; and anoutlet configured to direct the chlorine solution out of theneutralization cell by directing an outgoing flow of the chlorinesolution from the anode area.

In another aspect, an electrochemical activation system comprising theneutralization cell described above is provided. The system isconfigured to generate the incoming flow of the chlorine solution in achamber cell via electrolysis.

In another aspect, a method of increasing a pH level of a chlorinesolution is provided. In an embodiment, the method comprises causing aflow of a chlorine solution to pass through a neutralization cellcomprising a neutralization anode and a neutralization cathode, whereinthe flow of the chlorine solution enters the neutralization cell in ananode area on a side of the neutralization anode furthest from theneutralization cathode, passes through the neutralization anode, passesthrough a middle area between the neutralization anode and theneutralization cathode, passes through the neutralization cathode, andexits the neutralization cell from a cathode area on a side of theneutralization cathode furthest from the neutralization anode; andpowering the neutralization anode and the neutralization cathode whilecausing the flow of the chlorine solution.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of thedisclosed subject matter will become more readily appreciated as thesame become better understood by reference to the following detaileddescription, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of an ECA system configured to producehighly-concentrated alkaline solutions and highly-concentrated chlorinesolutions with a pH above a particular level, in accordance with theembodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 2 depicts an example of chlorine solution flow through theneutralization cell in the ECA system shown in FIG. 1, in accordancewith the embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 3 depicts an embodiment of a neutralization cell that is avariation of the neutralization cell depicted in FIG. 2, in accordancewith the embodiments disclosed herein;

FIGS. 4 and 5 depict two embodiments of neutralization cells withelectrodes that are positioned away from the walls of the neutralizationcells, in accordance with the embodiments disclosed herein;

FIGS. 6A to 6C depict embodiments of the neutralization cell depicted inFIG. 5 with the neutralization anode and the neutralization cathodebeing different types of non-solid electrodes, in accordance with theembodiments disclosed herein;

FIGS. 7A to 7C depict examples of internal flow through the embodimentsof the neutralization cell depicted, respectively, in FIGS. 6A to 6C, inaccordance with the embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 8 depicts an embodiment of a neutralization cell configured todirect flow over lengths of the electrodes, in accordance with theembodiments disclosed herein;

FIGS. 9A to 9C depict an embodiment of a flow of a chlorine solutionthrough the neutralization cell shown in FIG. 8, in accordance with theembodiments disclosed herein;

FIGS. 10A to 10D depict various embodiments of neutralization cells withanode guides, in accordance with the embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 11 depicts an embodiment of a neutralization cell with an anodeguide and a cathode guide, in accordance with the embodiments disclosedherein; and

FIG. 12 depicts an embodiment of a neutralization cell with an anodeguide and a cathode guide, in accordance with the embodiments disclosedherein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure describes embodiments of neutralization cells foruse in electro-chemical activation (ECA) systems. More specifically, thepresent disclosure describes embodiments of directing flow of a chlorinesolution through a neutralization cell to improve effectiveness ofneutralization.

Depicted in FIG. 1 is an embodiment of an ECA system 100 configured toproduce highly-concentrated alkaline solutions and highly-concentratedchlorine solutions with a pH above a particular level (e.g., above pH4). The ECA system 100 includes a chamber cell 102 that includes ananode chamber 104 and a cathode chamber 106. The anode chamber 104 isseparated from the cathode chamber 106 by a membrane 110. In someembodiments, the membrane 110 is a cation exchange membrane or a bipolarmembrane. In some embodiments, the membrane 110 is configured to hinderthe migration of Cl⁻, while permitting electrolysis to be performed byan anode and a cathode on either side of the membrane.

The ECA system 100 also includes a neutralization cell 160 that includesa neutralization chamber 108. In the depicted embodiment, the anodechamber 104 and the neutralization chamber 108 are physically separatedfrom each other because they are located respectively, in the chambercell 102 and the neutralization cell 160. In other embodiments, theneutralization chamber 108 can be located in the chamber cell 102 and beseparated from the anode chamber 104 by another membrane. Examples ofthis arrangement are depicted in the figures of PCT Patent PublicationWO2017200772, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by referencein their entirety.

The anode chamber 104 includes an anode 114. In some embodiments, theanode 114 is a solid, porous, or meshed electrode. In some embodiments,the anode 114 is made from titanium with a titanium oxide coating or aniridium(oxide) coating or a dimensionally stable anodes-Cl (DSA-Cl) typecoating. In some embodiments, the anode 114 is made from graphite.

The cathode chamber 106 includes a cathode 116. In some embodiments, thecathode 116 is a porous or meshed electrode. In some embodiments, thecathode 116 is made from titanium. In some embodiments, the cathode 116is made from graphite. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 1, thecathode 116 is placed in the cathode chamber 106 near or in directcontact with the membrane 110.

The neutralization chamber 108 includes a neutralization cathode 118 anda neutralization anode 162. In some embodiments, the neutralizationcathode 118 is a solid, porous or meshed electrode. In some embodiments,the neutralization cathode 118 and/or the neutralization anode 162 ismade from titanium with a titanium oxide coating or an iridium(oxide)coating or a DSA-Cl type of coating. In some embodiments, theneutralization cathode 118 and/or the neutralization anode 162 is madefrom graphite. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 1, theneutralization cathode 118 and the neutralization anode 162 are placedin the neutralization chamber 108 near or at opposite sides of theneutralization chamber 108. In some embodiments, the neutralizationcathode 118 and the neutralization anode 162 are located in theneutralization chamber 108 such that the ratio of exposed anode surfacearea in the neutralization chamber 108 to the exposed cathode surfacearea in the neutralization chamber 108 is in a range from about 1:1 toabout 1:10,000.

The ECA system 100 also includes a chlorine solution tank 120. A brinesupply line 122 is configured to carry brine from an external source(e.g., a brine tank) into the chlorine solution tank 120. A chlorinesolution supply line 124 is configured to carry chlorine solution out ofthe chlorine solution tank 120 to an external destination (e.g., awashing machine). An anode chamber supply line 126 is configured tocarry fluid out of the chlorine solution tank 120 to the anode chamber104. In some embodiments, the fluid carried by anode chamber supply line126 is brine, anodic electrolyte, water, any other fluid, or anycombination thereof.

A neutralization supply line 140 is configured to carry anodicelectrolyte out of the anode chamber 104 to the neutralization chamber108. An anode return line 128 is configured to carry anodic electrolyteout of the neutralization chamber 108 back to the chlorine solution tank120. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, theanode return line 128 is configured to carry anodic electrolyte out ofthe neutralization chamber 108 from a side of the neutralization chamber108 that is opposite of the side of the neutralization chamber 108 intowhich the neutralization supply line 140 carries anodic electrolyte intothe neutralization chamber 108.

The ECA system 100 also includes an alkaline solution tank 130. A watersupply line 132 is configured to carry raw or softened water from anexternal source (e.g., a water tank) into the alkaline solution tank130. An alkaline solution supply line 134 is configured to carryalkaline solution out of the alkaline solution tank 130 to an externaldestination (e.g., a washing machine/tap). A cathode chamber supply line136 is configured to carry fluid out of the alkaline solution tank 130to the cathode chamber 106. In some embodiments, the fluid carried bythe cathode chamber supply line 136 is cathodic electrolyte, water, anyother fluid, or any combination thereof. A cathode return line 138 isconfigured to carry cathodic electrolyte out of the cathode chamber 106back to the alkaline solution tank 130. In some embodiments, such as theembodiment shown in FIG. 1, the cathode return line 138 is configured tocarry cathodic electrolyte out of the cathode chamber 106 from a side ofthe cathode chamber 106 that is opposite of the side of the cathodechamber 106 into which the cathode chamber supply line 136 carries fluidinto the cathode chamber 106.

The ECA system 100 can be used to create concentrated cleaningsolutions, such as to produce concentrated chlorine solution andconcentrated alkaline solution for commercial dishwashing machines orother cleaning scenarios. In some embodiments of using the ECA system100, brine is added to the chlorine solution tank 120. A brine flowpasses through the brine supply line 122 into the chlorine solution tank120. Adding brine to the chlorine solution tank 120 is sometimesreferred to as “charging” the chlorine solution tank 120. In someembodiments, the brine is raw water (i.e., untreated water) or softwater (i.e., water with a low ion concentration) that has an alkalimetal chloride. In some examples, the alkali metal chloride has aconcentration in a range from about 0.25% to about 40% by weight. Wateris also added to the alkaline solution tank. A water flow passes throughthe water supply line 132. Adding water to the alkaline solution tank130 is sometimes referred to as “charging” the alkaline solution tank130. In some embodiments, the water is raw water (i.e., untreated water)or soft water (i.e., water with low ion concentration) that is free fromalkali metal chloride and water hardness salts.

The brine solution is circulated to create a concentrated chlorinesolution. The circulation includes a flow of fluid from the chlorinesolution tank 120 to the anode chamber 104 via the anode chamber supplyline 126, a flow of anodic electrolyte from the anode chamber 104 to theneutralization chamber 108 via the neutralization supply line 140, and aflow of anodic electrolyte from the neutralization chamber 108 back tothe chlorine solution tank 120 via the anode return line 128.

An electrolysis process occurs by applying a voltage between the anode114 and the cathode 116. As previously noted, in some embodiments, thebrine has an alkali metal chloride with a concentration in a range fromabout 0.25% to about 40% by weight. As the brine passes through theanode chamber 104, the active (i.e., powered) anode 114 causes some ofthe water with alkali metal chloride to be converted to hypochlorousacid according to the following anode half-cell reaction:

Cl⁻+H₂O→OCl⁻+2H⁺+2e ⁻(Eo 1.45V)  (1)

Because not all of the water and alkali metal chloride is converted tohypochlorous acid, the result of passing brine through the anode chamberis an anodic electrolyte containing water, alkali metal chloride, andhypochlorous acid.

The concentration of the hypochlorous acid in the anodic electrolyteafter one pass through the anode chamber 104 may not be as high asdesired for particular cleaning solutions. In some examples, commercialwashing machines may use highly-concentrated cleaning solutions,particularly when commercial washing machines add fresh water to dilutethe cleaning solution as part of the washing process. In someembodiments, in order to raise the concentration of the hypochlorousacid in the anodic electrolyte, the anodic electrolyte is circulatedthrough the anode chamber 104 multiple times to create more hypochlorousacid in the anodic electrolyte until a concentrated chlorine solution isformed.

In some embodiments, the recirculation continues until the concentratedchlorine solution reaches a predetermined active chlorine concentration.In some examples, the predetermined active chlorine (OCl⁻) concentrationis in a range from about 0.02% to about 14% (i.e., from about 200 ppm toabout 140,000 ppm) In some embodiments, the concentration of activechlorine used in (ware) washing machines is in the range of about 15 ppmto about 60 ppm, and the (ware) washing machines are configured toreceive concentrated chlorine solution in a range from about 0.02% toabout 14% (i.e., from about 200 ppm to about 140,000 ppm) and to dilutethe concentrated chlorine solution to the use range from about 15 ppm toabout 60 ppm. In other embodiments, the recirculation continues untilthe concentrated chlorine solution has been circulated a predeterminednumber of times. In some examples, the predetermined number of times isin a range from about two times to about 10,000 times. In this way, theECA system 100 creates a concentrated chlorine solution by circulatingthe anodic electrolyte until the concentration of the chlorine solutionreaches a particular concentration. In some embodiments, thepredetermined active chlorine concentration is in a range from about0.02% to about 14% (i.e., from about 200 ppm to about 140,000 ppm), in arange from about 0.02% to about 10% (i.e., from about 200 ppm to about100,000 ppm), or in a range from about 0.02% to about 5% (i.e., fromabout 200 ppm to about 50,000 ppm).

One possible issue with recirculating anodic electrolyte to createconcentrated chlorine solution is that the reaction in the anode chamber104 forms protons. The protons increase acidity of the anodicelectrolyte, resulting in a resulting drop in pH of the anodicelectrolyte. Chlorine gas (Cl₂) may form at low pH values, typically ina range below about pH 4. The formation of chlorine gas creates a safetyissue as chlorine gas is harmful to users of (ware) washing machines andcleaning personnel. Thus, in order to avoid the creation of chlorinegas, the pH level of the anodic electrolyte should be kept above aboutpH 4.

In order to avoid a pH drop below pH 4, the circulating anodicelectrolyte is passed through the neutralization chamber 108 after itleaves the anode chamber 104. The neutralization chamber 108 includesthe neutralization cathode 118 and the neutralization anode 162 that,when operating in connection with each other, remove protons from theanodic electrolyte. The neutralization effect occurs as a result of thehalf reaction according to the following chemical reaction:

2H⁺+2e ⁻→H₂ (Eo (V)+0.00)  (2)

In some embodiments, the neutralization chamber 108 is operated suchthat the anodic electrolyte remains pH-neutral (i.e., having a pH levelin a range from about pH 6 to about pH 8). In some embodiments, theneutralization chamber 108 is operated such that the anodic electrolyteremains at a pH level in a range from about pH 4 to about pH 7.

The water is circulated to create a concentrated alkaline solution. Thecirculation includes a flow of fluid from the alkaline solution tank 130to the cathode chamber 106 via the cathode chamber supply line 136 and aflow of cathodic electrolyte from the cathode chamber 106 back to thealkaline solution tank 130 via the cathode return line 138. As the waterpasses through the cathode chamber 106 during the electrolysis process,the active (i.e., powered) cathode 116 causes some of the water to beconverted to an alkaline electrolyte according to the following cathodehalf-cell reaction:

2H₂O+2e ⁻→H₂(g)+2OH⁻(Eo −0.83V)  (3)

The concentration of the alkaline electrolyte after one pass through thecathode chamber 106 may not be as high as desired for particularcleaning machines. In some examples, commercial washing machines may usehighly-concentrated cleaning solutions. In some embodiments, in order toraise the concentration of the alkaline electrolyte, the alkalineelectrolyte is circulated through the cathode chamber 106 multiple timesto create a concentrated alkaline solution. In some embodiments, therecirculation continues until the concentrated alkaline solution reachesa predetermined alkalinity. In some examples, the predeterminedalkalinity is in a range from about 0.02% Na₂O to about 50% Na₂O (i.e.,from about 200 ppm Na₂O to about 500,000 ppm Na₂O). In some embodiments,(ware) washing machines wash with alkalinity levels in the range fromabout 50 ppm Na₂O to about 400 ppm Na₂O, and the (ware) washing machinesare configured to receive concentrated alkaline solution in a range fromabout 0.02% Na₂O to about 50% Na₂O (i.e., from about 200 ppm Na₂O toabout 500,000 ppm Na₂O) and to dilute the concentrated chlorine solutionto the use range from about 50 ppm Na₂O to about 400 ppm Na₂O. In otherembodiments, the recirculation continues until the concentrated alkalinesolution has been circulated a predetermined number of times. In someexamples, the predetermined number of times is in a range from about twotimes to about 10,000 times. In this way, the ECA system 100 creates aconcentrated alkaline solution by circulating the alkaline electrolyteuntil the alkalinity of the alkaline solution reaches a particularconcentration. In some examples, the predetermined alkalinity is in arange from about 0.02% Na₂O to about 50% Na₂O (i.e., from about 200 ppmNa₂O to about 500,000 ppm Na₂O), in a range from about 0.02% Na₂O toabout 10% Na₂O (i.e., from about 200 ppm Na₂O to about 100,000 ppmNa₂O), or in a range from about 0.02% Na₂O to about 5% Na₂O (i.e., fromabout 200 ppm Na₂O to about 50,000 ppm Na₂O).

The circulation of the anodic electrolyte and the cathodic electrolytemay be performed at least partially simultaneously. This allows both theconcentrated chlorine solution and the concentrated alkaline solution tobe created at least partially simultaneously. In some embodiments, whileboth the anode 114 and the cathode 116 are operating and both the andthe neutralization anode 162 and the neutralization cathode 118 areoperating simultaneously, the reaction caused by the neutralizationcathode 118 may not remove enough protons from the anodic electrolyte tomaintain the pH level in a safe range (e.g., above about pH 4). In someembodiments, the pH level of the anodic electrolyte is monitored. As thepH level drops to a predetermined level (e.g., below pH 5), theoperation of the anode 114 and the cathode 116 is reduced ordiscontinued so that operation of the neutralization anode 162 and theneutralization cathode 118 is resumed or is increased to raise the pHlevel of the anodic electrolyte. As the pH level returns to a safe level(e.g., to a point in a range from about pH 6 to about pH 8), theoperation of the anode 114 and the cathode 116 is increased or resumedto continue increasing the alkalinity of the alkaline solution.

Variations of arrangement of the ECA system 100 are possible whilepreserving the functions described herein. Some embodiments ofvariations of the ECA system are depicted and described in PCT PatentPublication WO2017200772, the contents of which are hereby incorporatedby reference in their entirety. Described below herein are embodimentsof neutralization cells configured to achieve a chlorine solution flowwhich improves the effectiveness of the neutralization. The embodimentsof neutralization cells described herein may be used in the ECA system100 in place of the neutralization cell 160 or in any variation of theECA system 100.

Depicted in FIG. 2 is an example of chlorine solution flow through theneutralization cell 160. The neutralization cell 160 includes an inlet170 and an outlet 172. In some embodiments, the inlet 170 is coupled tothe neutralization supply line 140 and the outlet 172 is coupled to theanode return line 128. In other embodiments, the outlet 172 is coupleddirectly to the point of chlorine solution use and/or application. Anincoming flow 174 of chlorine solution enters the neutralization cell160 through the inlet 170. The chlorine solution passes in an internalflow 176 inside of the neutralization cell 160. An outgoing flow 178 ofchlorine solution exits the neutralization cell 160 through the outlet172.

Inside the neutralization cell 160, a number of reactions take place.Those reactions include:

2H₂O+2e ⁻→H₂+2OH⁻  (4)

2Cl⁻→Cl₂+2e ⁻  (5)

Cl₂+2OH⁻→ClO⁻+Cl⁻+H₂O  (6)

H⁺+OH⁻→H₂O  (7)

Equation (4) occurs in the chlorine solution near the surface of theneutralization cathode 118 and equation (5) occurs in the chlorinesolution near the surface of the neutralization anode 162. Equations (6)and (7) are follow-up reactions that occur following the reactions inequations (4) and (5). The protons (H⁺) in equation (7) were generatedduring production in the anode chamber 104. The removal of these protonsfrom the chlorine solution increases the pH level of the chlorinesolution. An alternative reaction for Cl⁻ in the presence of water is asfollows:

Cl₂+2H₂O→HClO⁻+H⁺+Cl⁻  (8)

Because equation (8) produces protons, it is preferable for equation (6)to occur instead of equation (8). In some cases, the equation (6) occursmore easily than equation (8), and therefore the Cl₂ in the chlorinesolution will more readily react with the OH⁻ in the chlorine solutiondespite the present or readily-available water in the chlorine solution.However, it would be preferable to encourage the occurrence of equation(6) and discourage the occurrence of equation (8) wherever possible.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, the neutralization anode 162 andthe neutralization cathode 118 are arranged at opposite sides of theneutralization cell 160 and are arranged substantially parallel to theincoming flow 174 and the outgoing flow 178 of the chlorine solution.The internal flow 176 allows some of the chlorine solution to pass byone of the neutralization anode 162 or the neutralization cathode 118.However, the most direct path of the internal flow 176 takes thechlorine solution down the middle of the neutralization cell 160, awayfrom both the neutralization anode 162 and the neutralization cathode118. In practice, the internal flow 176 takes some of the chlorinesolution closer to the neutralization anode 162 and some of the chlorinesolution closer to the neutralization cathode 118. However, thereactions near the surfaces of the neutralization anode 162 and theneutralization cathode 118 (e.g., equations (4) and (5)) do not occurefficiently and the follow-up equations that provide the neutralizationeffect (e.g., equations (6) and (7)) do not occur as much as desired.

Depicted in FIG. 3 is an embodiment of a neutralization cell 260 that isa variation of the neutralization cell 160 depicted in FIG. 2. Theneutralization cell 260 includes a neutralization anode 262 and aneutralization cathode 218. The neutralization cell 260 also includes aninlet 270 and an outlet 272. An incoming flow 274 of chlorine solutionenters the neutralization cell 260 through the inlet 270. The chlorinesolution passes in an internal flow 276 inside of the neutralizationcell 260. An outgoing flow 278 of chlorine solution exits theneutralization cell 260 through the outlet 272.

In contrast to the neutralization cell 160, the inlet 270 of theneutralization cell 260 is located near the neutralization anode 262 andthe outlet 272 of the neutralization cell 260 is located near theneutralization cathode 218. This arrangement of the inlet 270 and theoutlet 272 causes the internal flow 276 to pass by both a portion of theneutralization anode 262 and a portion of the neutralization cathode218. Because internal flow 276 causes the chlorine solution to pass moreclosely to the neutralization anode 262 and the neutralization cathode218, the occurrence of equations (4) and (5) in the chlorine solution ismore frequent. Therefore, the follow-up equations (6) and (7) thatprovide the neutralization effect also occur more frequently.

Depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5 are two embodiments of neutralization cells360 and 360′ with electrodes that are positioned away from the walls ofthe neutralization cells 360 and 360′. Each of the neutralization cells360 and 360′ includes a neutralization anode 362 and a neutralizationcathode 318. The neutralization anode 362 and the neutralization cathode318 are positioned away from the walls of the neutralization cells 360and 360′. The neutralization anode 362 and the neutralization cathode318 are positioned to divide each of the neutralization cells 360 and360′ into an anode area 380 on a side of the neutralization anode 362furthest from the neutralization cathode 318, a middle area 382 betweenthe neutralization anode 362 and the neutralization cathode 318, and acathode area 384 on a side of the neutralization cathode 318 furthestfrom the neutralization anode 362.

One benefit to the positioning of the neutralization anode 362 and theneutralization cathode 318 in FIGS. 4 and 5 is an increase in theoccurrence of the reactions shown in equations (4) and (5). With theneutralization anode 362 and the neutralization cathode 318 away fromthe walls of the neutralization cells 360 and 360′, a greater amount ofsurface area of the neutralization anode 362 and the neutralizationcathode 318 are exposed to the chlorine solution. Because the reactionsshown in equations (4) and (5) occur near the surfaces of theneutralization anode 362 and the neutralization cathode 318, theincrease in the exposed surface area of the neutralization anode 362 andthe neutralization cathode 318 results in the increase in the occurrenceof the equations (4) and (5). Another benefit to this arrangement is theeffective degassing of the neutralization cells 360 and 360′. Fluidentry is typically at the bottom side because it removes gasses wellfrom the cell. This effectively degasses the cell at startup and duringthe operation of the neutralization cell when hydrogen is formed at thecathode, which is then also effectively removed from the neutralizationcells 360 and 360′.

The neutralization cell 360 includes an inlet 370 and an outlet 372. Theinlet 370 is configured to direct an incoming flow 374 of the chlorinesolution into the cathode area 384 of the neutralization cell 360. Theoutlet 372 is configured to direct an outgoing flow 378 of the chlorinesolution from the anode area 380 of the neutralization cell 360. Aninternal flow 376 of the chlorine solution passes from the cathode area384 into the middle area 382 through the neutralization cathode 318. Theinternal flow 376 of the chlorine solution also passes from the middlearea 382 into the anode area 380 through the neutralization anode 362.

The neutralization cell 360′ includes an inlet 370′ and an outlet 372′.The inlet 370′ is configured to direct an incoming flow 374′ of thechlorine solution into the anode area 380 of the neutralization cell360. The outlet 372′ is configured to direct an outgoing flow 378 of thechlorine solution from the cathode area 384 of the neutralization cell360′. An internal flow 376′ of the chlorine solution passes from theanode area 380 into the middle area 382 through the neutralization anode362. The internal flow 376′ of the chlorine solution also passes fromthe middle area 382 into the cathode area 384 through the neutralizationcathode 318.

In the depicted embodiment, the neutralization anode 362 and theneutralization cathode 318 are non-solid to permit the internal flows376 and 376′ to pass through the neutralization anode 362 and theneutralization cathode 318. In some embodiments, each of theneutralization anode 362 and the neutralization cathode 318 is a slottedelectrode, a porous electrode, a divided electrode, a mesh electrode, orany other type of non-solid electrode. Depicted in FIGS. 6A to 6C areembodiments of the neutralization cell 360′ with the neutralizationanode 362 and the neutralization cathode 318 being different types ofnon-solid electrodes. Depicted in FIGS. 7A to 7C are examples ofinternal flow through the embodiments of the neutralization cell 360′depicted, respectively, in FIGS. 6A to 6C. In FIG. 6A, theneutralization anode 362 and the neutralization cathode 318 are slottedelectrodes with slots 390 through which the chlorine solution can pass.As shown in FIG. 7A, the internal flow 376′ of the chlorine solutionpasses through the slots 390 on its way from the inlet 370′ to theoutlet 372′. In FIG. 6B, the neutralization anode 362 and theneutralization cathode 318 are porous electrodes with small holesthrough which the chlorine solution can pass. As shown in FIG. 7B, theinternal flow 376′ of the chlorine solution passes through the porousholes on its way from the inlet 370′ to the outlet 372′. In FIG. 6C, theneutralization anode 362 and the neutralization cathode 318 are dividedelectrodes with separate electrode portions 392 between which thechlorine solution can pass. As shown in FIG. 7C, the internal flow 376′of the chlorine solution passes between the electrode portions 392 onits way from the inlet 370′ to the outlet 372′.

Referring back to FIGS. 4 and 5, experiments were conducted using an ECAsystem similar to the ECA system 100 shown in FIG. 1, but with theneutralization cells 360 and 360′ used for the neutralization. First, achlorine solution was created by the ECA system by treating a brinesolution of about 1500 ppm with a pH level of about pH 7. The chlorinesolution produced by the ECA system had 125 ppm of chlorine and a pHlevel of pH 2.7.

Second, the neutralization cell 360 was used to treat the chlorinesolution. The chlorine solution was passed into the cathode area 384,through the neutralization cathode 318, through the middle area 382,through the neutralization anode 362, and out of the anode area 380. ThepH level of the chlorine solution was monitored as it was passing out ofthe anode area 380, and the pH level of the chlorine solution droppedbelow pH 1. It appears that passing the chlorine solution by theneutralization cathode 318 first and then by the neutralization anode362 caused the reaction in equation (8) to occur instead of the reactionin equation (6). This increased the number of protons in the chlorinesolution rather than removed them, and therefore dropped the pH level ofthe chlorine solution.

Third, the neutralization cell 360′ was used to treat the chlorinesolution. The chlorine solution was passed into the anode area 380,through the neutralization anode 362, through the middle area 382,through the neutralization cathode 318, and out of the cathode area 384.The pH level of the chlorine solution was monitored as it was passingout of the cathode area 384, and the pH level of the chlorine solutionrose to a pH level of pH 5.6. Interestingly, the concentration ofchlorine also increased to a level of 260 ppm of chlorine. Thus, as theneutralization cell 360′ had a neutralizing effect on the chlorinesolution, it also increased the concentration of the chlorine solution.

Based on the experiments, it appears that a neutralization cell is moreeffective when chlorine solution enters the neutralization cell on aside of the anode furthest from the cathode, passes through the anodeand then through the cathode, and then exits the neutralization cell ona side of the cathode further from the anode. This system and method iseffective at providing a neutralizing effect on the chlorine solution.It also tends to increase the concentration of the chlorine solutionwhile also providing the neutralizing effect. In some embodiments, thedistance between the anode and the cathode is selected to increase theeffectiveness of the neutralization. In one example, the distancebetween the anode and the cathode is in a range from about 0.01 mm toabout 10 mm. In another example, the distance between the anode and thecathode is in a range from about 0.01 mm to about 3 mm.

In some embodiments, the neutralization effect produced by aneutralization cell can be increased by directing the internal flowacross a wider surface area of the anode and in other embodiments, ofthe cathode. As will be further described below with reference to theembodiments of FIGS. 8, 9A-9C, 10D, 11 and 12, directing an internalflow in this way can mean altering an incoming flow (e.g., itsdirection, its flow rate) so as to distribute the incoming flow,including uniformly distributing it, across a length of an electrode.Although embodiments of neutralization cells can provide highly uniformdistributions of an incoming flow across of length of an electrode, evenwithout achieving complete uniformity, an increase in uniformity canachieve an increase in pH of a chlorine solution and thus, an increasein the effectiveness of the neutralization.

Depicted in FIG. 8 is an embodiment of a neutralization cell 460configured to direct flow across lengths of both of the electrodes. Theneutralization cell 460 includes a neutralization anode 462 and aneutralization cathode 418. The neutralization anode 462 and theneutralization cathode 418 are positioned to divide the neutralizationcell 460 into three areas: an anode area 480 on a side of theneutralization anode 462 that is furthest from the neutralizationcathode 418, a middle area 482 that is between the neutralization anode462 and the neutralization cathode 418, and a cathode area 484 on a sideof the neutralization cathode 418 that is furthest from theneutralization anode 462. The neutralization cell 460 also includes aninlet 470 and an outlet 472. The inlet 470 is configured to permit achlorine solution to enter the neutralization cell 460 into the anodearea 480 and the outlet 472 is configured to permit the chlorinesolution to exit the neutralization cell 460 from the cathode area 484.

The neutralization cell 460 also includes an anode guide 490 located inthe anode area 480. The anode guide 490 is configured to direct a flowof the chlorine solution from the inlet 470 across a length of theneutralization anode 462. In this embodiment, the anode guide 490comprises a plurality of separated projections distributed across alength of the neutralization anode 462. Each projection is orientedapproximately perpendicular to, and extending away from, theneutralization anode 462. Each projection also has an end furthest awayfrom the neutralization anode 462 which is curved towards the inlet 470.However, as will be described below, other physical structures may beused to direct a flow of the chlorine solution from the inlet 470 acrossa length of the neutralization anode 462. In some embodiments, thelength of the neutralization anode 462 over which anode guide 490directs the flow is a length in a range from at least half the entirelength of the neutralization anode 462 to the entire length of theneutralization anode 462.

As shown in FIG. 8, the neutralization cell 460 also includes a cathodeguide 492 located in the cathode area 484. The cathode guide 492 isconfigured to direct a flow of the chlorine solution from across alength of the neutralization cathode 418 toward the outlet 472. In thisembodiment, the configuration of the cathode guide 492 is analogous tothat of the anode guide 462 except that the cathode guide 492 isconfigured to direct the flow of the chlorine solution from across alength of the neutralization cathode 418 toward the outlet 472. Otherphysical structures may be used to direct a flow of the chlorinesolution from across a length of the neutralization cathode 418 towardthe outlet 472 as described above with respect to the neutralizationanode 462. In some embodiments, the length of the neutralization cathode418 from which cathode guide 492 directs the flow is a length in a rangefrom at least half the length of the neutralization cathode 418 to theentire length of the neutralization cathode 418.

A flow of a chlorine solution through the neutralization cell 460 ofFIG. 8 is depicted in more detail in FIGS. 9A to 9C. FIG. 9A illustrateshow directing an incoming flow 474 of a chlorine solution across alength of the neutralization anode 462 can involve diverting theincoming flow 474 (which is substantially parallel to the neutralizationanode 462) so that the incoming flow 474 flows through theneutralization anode 462 substantially perpendicularly and isdistributed across the length of the neutralization anode 462.Specifically, the incoming flow 474 of chlorine solution enters theneutralization cell 460 through the inlet 470. In the depictedembodiment, the incoming flow 474 enters the neutralization cell 460substantially parallel to the neutralization anode 462. Once thechlorine solution is in the anode area 480, an internal flow 476 ₁ ofthe chlorine solution passes through the anode area 480. The internalflow 476 ₁ is directed from the inlet 470 across a length of theneutralization anode 462 by the anode guide 490. In the depictedembodiment, the anode guide 490 causes the internal flow 476 ₁ to turnfrom being substantially parallel to the neutralization anode 462 tobeing substantially perpendicular to the neutralization anode 462 acrossthe length of the neutralization anode 462. The depicted embodiment canincrease the uniformity of the flow of the chlorine solution through theneutralization anode 462 as compared to the flow without the anode guide490.

As shown in FIG. 9B, an internal flow 476 ₂ of the chlorine solution inthe middle area 482 continues from the neutralization anode 462 to theneutralization cathode 418. In some embodiments, the internal flow 476 ₂continues in a direction similar to the direction of the internal flow476 ₁ caused by the anode guide 490. As shown in FIG. 9C, an internalflow 476 ₃ of the chlorine solution in the cathode area 484 is directedfrom across a length of the neutralization cathode 418 toward the outlet472 by the cathode guide 492. An outgoing flow 478 of the chlorinesolution then exits the neutralization cell 460 via the outlet 472.

The flows depicted in FIGS. 9A to 9C increase the effectiveness of theneutralization reactions inside the neutralization cell 460. Morespecifically, the reaction shown in equation (5) occurs more readilybecause the internal flow 476 ₁ directs the chlorine solution across alength of the neutralization anode 462 so that a greater surface area ofthe neutralization anode 462 is exposed to the chlorine solution. Also,the reaction shown in equation (4) occurs more readily because theinternal flow 476 ₂ directs the chlorine solution across a length of theneutralization cathode 418 so that a greater surface area of theneutralization cathode 418 is exposed to the chlorine solution. Becausethe equations (4) and (5) occur more readily, the follow-up reactionsshown in equations (6) and (7) also occur more readily. In this way, agreater number of protons are removed from the chlorine solution via thereaction in equation (7) and the higher the pH level of the chlorinesolution is raised and more chlorine is formed in the neutralizationcell 460.

Various embodiments of neutralization cells with anode guides aredepicted in FIGS. 10A to 10D. FIG. 10A depicts a neutralization cell 560that includes a neutralization anode 562 and a neutralization cathode518. The neutralization anode 562 and the neutralization cathode 518 arepositioned to divide the neutralization cell 560 into three areas: ananode area 580 on a side of the neutralization anode 562 that isfurthest from the neutralization cathode 518, a middle area 582 that isbetween the neutralization anode 562 and the neutralization cathode 518,and a cathode area 584 on a side of the neutralization cathode 518 thatis furthest from the neutralization anode 562. The neutralization cell560 also includes an inlet 570 and an outlet 572. The inlet 570 isconfigured to permit a chlorine solution to enter the neutralizationcell 560 into the anode area 580 and the outlet 572 is configured topermit the chlorine solution to exit the neutralization cell 560 fromthe cathode area 584.

The neutralization cell 560 also includes an anode guide 590 located inthe anode area 580. The anode guide 590 is configured to direct a flowof the chlorine solution from the inlet 570 across a length of theneutralization anode 562. The neutralization cell 560 does not includeany guides in the middle area 582 or the cathode area 584. Despite thelack of guides in the middle area 582 and the cathode area 584, theanode guide 590 may direct the flow through the neutralization anode 562and toward the neutralization cathode 518 to effectively carry out theneutralization reactions and then the flow may direct itself toward theoutlet 572.

FIG. 10B depicts a neutralization cell 660 that includes aneutralization anode 662 and a neutralization cathode 618. Theneutralization anode 662 and the neutralization cathode 618 arepositioned to divide the neutralization cell 660 into three areas: ananode area 680 on a side of the neutralization anode 662 that isfurthest from the neutralization cathode 618, a middle area 684 that isbetween the neutralization anode 662 and the neutralization cathode 618,and a cathode area 682 on a side of the neutralization cathode 618 thatis furthest from the neutralization anode 662. The neutralization cell660 also includes an inlet 670 and an outlet 672. The inlet 670 isconfigured to permit a chlorine solution to enter the neutralizationcell 660 into the anode area 680 and the outlet 672 is configured topermit the chlorine solution to exit the neutralization cell 660 fromthe cathode area 682.

The neutralization cell 660 also includes an anode guide 690 located inthe anode area 680. The anode guide 690 is configured to direct a flowof the chlorine solution from the inlet 670 across a length of theneutralization anode 662. The neutralization cell 660 also includes acathode guide 692 located in the cathode area 682. The cathode guide 692is configured to direct a flow of the chlorine solution from across alength of the neutralization cathode 618 toward the outlet 672. Theneutralization cell 660 also includes a middle guide 694 located in themiddle area 684. The middle guide 694 is configured to direct a flow ofthe chlorine solution from a length of the neutralization anode 662across the middle area 684 to a length of the neutralization cathode618.

FIG. 10C depicts a neutralization cell 760 that includes aneutralization anode 762 and a neutralization cathode 718. Theneutralization anode 762 and the neutralization cathode 718 arepositioned to divide the neutralization cell 760 into three areas: ananode area 780 on a side of the neutralization anode 762 that isfurthest from the neutralization cathode 718, a middle area 782 that isbetween the neutralization anode 762 and the neutralization cathode 718,and a cathode area 784 on a side of the neutralization cathode 718 thatis furthest from the neutralization anode 762. The neutralization cell760 also includes an inlet 770 and an outlet 772. The inlet 770 isconfigured to permit a chlorine solution to enter the neutralizationcell 760 into the anode area 780 and the outlet 772 is configured topermit the chlorine solution to exit the neutralization cell 760 fromthe cathode area 784.

The neutralization cell 760 also includes an anode guide 790 located inthe anode area 780. The anode guide 790 is configured to direct a flowof the chlorine solution from the inlet 770 across a length of theneutralization anode 762. The neutralization cell 760 also includes amiddle guide 794 located in the middle area 782. The middle guide 794 isconfigured to direct a flow of the chlorine solution across the middlearea 782 from a length of the neutralization anode 762 to theneutralization cathode 718. The neutralization cell 760 does not includeany guide in the cathode area 784. Despite the lack of guides in thecathode area 784, the flow may direct itself toward the outlet 772.

FIG. 10D depicts a neutralization cell 860 that includes aneutralization anode 862 and a neutralization cathode 818. Theneutralization anode 862 and the neutralization cathode 818 arepositioned to divide the neutralization cell 860 into three areas: ananode area 880 on a side of the neutralization anode 862 that isfurthest from the neutralization cathode 818, a middle area 882 that isbetween the neutralization anode 862 and the neutralization cathode 818,and a cathode area 884 on a side of the neutralization cathode 818 thatis furthest from the neutralization anode 862. The neutralization cell860 also includes an inlet 870 and an outlet 872. The inlet 870 isconfigured to permit a chlorine solution to enter the neutralizationcell 860 into the anode area 880 and the outlet 872 is configured topermit the chlorine solution to exit the neutralization cell 860 fromthe cathode area 884.

The neutralization cell 860 also includes an anode guide 890 located inthe anode area 880. The anode guide 890 is configured to direct a flowof the chlorine solution from the inlet 870 across a length of theneutralization anode 862. Like the embodiment of the anode guide 490 ofFIG. 8, the anode guide 890 also comprises a plurality of separatedprojections distributed across a length of the neutralization anode 862.Each projection is oriented approximately perpendicular to, andextending away from, the neutralization anode 862. Each projection alsohas an end furthest away from the neutralization anode 862 which iscurved towards the inlet 870. However, in the depicted embodiment,chlorine solution enters the inlet 870 in a direction approximatelyperpendicular to the neutralization anode 862 and the anode guide 890 isconfigured to spread the flow outward (to the left and right in FIG.10D) across a length of the neutralization anode 862. The neutralizationcell 860 does not include any guides in the middle area 882 or thecathode area 884. Despite the lack of guides in the middle area 882 andthe cathode area 884, the anode guide 890 may direct the flow throughthe neutralization anode 862 and toward the neutralization cathode 818to effectively carry out the neutralization reactions and then the flowmay direct itself toward the outlet 872. In the depicted embodiment, thewalls of the neutralization cell 860 in the cathode area 884 maythemselves direct the flow of chlorine solution in the cathode area 884toward the outlet 872.

FIG. 11 shows another embodiment of a neutralization cell 960 which isconfigured similarly to the neutralization cell 460 of FIG. 8, includinga neutralization anode 962, a neutralization cathode 918, an inlet 970,an outlet 972, an anode area 980, a middle area 982, and a cathode area984. However, the embodiment of FIG. 11 shows another illustrative anodeguide 990 and another illustrative cathode guide 992. In thisembodiment, the anode guide 990 and the cathode guide 992 may eachcomprise a perforated (or meshed) separator. The perforated separatorsare positioned approximately parallel to a surface of the neutralizationanode 962 and the neutralization cathode 918, respectively. Theperforated separator of the anode guide 990 alters an incoming flow of achlorine solution from the inlet 970 so as to distribute it across alength of the neutralization anode 962. Specifically, the apertures inthe perforated or meshed separator facilitate diversion of the incomingflow towards the neutralization anode 962 across a length of theneutralization anode 962. The perforated or meshed separator of thecathode guide 992 directs an incoming flow of the chlorine solution fromacross a length of the neutralization cathode 918 into the cathode area984, where the walls of the neutralization cell 960 effectively directthe chlorine solution towards the outlet 972. In other embodiments, suchas that shown in FIG. 10A, the cathode guide 992 need not be included.

FIG. 12 shows another embodiment of a neutralization cell 1060 which isconfigured similarly to the neutralization cell 460 of FIG. 8, includinga neutralization anode 1062, a neutralization cathode 1018, an inlet1070, an outlet 1072, an anode area 1080, a middle area 1082, and acathode area 1084. However, the embodiment of FIG. 12 shows anotherillustrative anode guide 1090 and another illustrative cathode guide1092. In this embodiment, the anode guide 1090 and the cathode guide1092 may each comprise a plurality of particles (or fibers). Theplurality of particles fill at least a portion of the anode area 1080and the cathode area 1084, respectively. This particle (or fiber)structure of the anode guide 1090 alters an incoming flow of a chlorinesolution from the inlet 1070 so as to distribute it across a length ofthe neutralization anode 1062. Specifically, the pores throughout theparticle structure restrict the flow rate and facilitate diversion ofthe incoming flow towards the neutralization anode 1062 across a lengthof the neutralization anode 1062. The particle structure of the cathodeguide 1092 directs an incoming flow of the chlorine solution from acrossa length of the neutralization cathode 1018 into the cathode area 1084.The particle structure and/or the walls of the neutralization cell 1060effectively direct the chlorine solution towards the outlet 1072. Inother embodiments, such as that shown in FIG. 10A, the cathode guide1092 need not be included.

Embodiments of anode guides 590, 690, 790, 890, 990 and 1090 have beendescribed above in the form of projections, a perforated separator, ameshed separator, a particle structure and a fiber structure. Otherphysical structures such as baffles and grids may be used to achieve thesame functions. In some embodiments, the length of a corresponding oneof the neutralization anodes 562, 662, 762, 862, 962 and 1062 over whichone of the anode guides 590, 690, 790, 890, 990 and 1090 directs theflow is a length in a range from at least half the entire length of thecorresponding one of the neutralization anodes 562, 662, 762, 862, 962and 1062 to the entire length of the corresponding one of theneutralization anodes 562, 662, 762, 862, 962 and 1062. Any one of theanode guides 590, 690, 790, 890, 990 and 1090 can increase theuniformity of the flow of the chlorine solution across the length of acorresponding one of the neutralization anodes 562, 662, 762, 862, 962and 1062 and in embodiments, the increase can provide a completelyuniform flow. However, even without a completely uniform flow, anincrease in uniformity can achieve an increase in pH and thus, anincrease in the effectiveness of the neutralization.

Embodiments of cathode guides 692, 992 and 1092 have been describedabove in the form of projections, a perforated separator, a meshedseparator, a particle structure and a fiber structure. Other physicalstructures such as baffles and grids may be used to achieve the samefunctions. In some embodiments, the length of the corresponding one ofthe neutralization cathodes 618, 918 and 1018 from which one of thecathode guides 692, 992 and 1092 directs the flow is a length in a rangefrom at least half the entire length of the corresponding one of theneutralization cathodes 618, 918 and 1018 to the entire length of thecorresponding one of the neutralization cathodes 618, 918 and 1018.

In some embodiments, the guides described herein may not come intodirect contact with the electrode or electrodes near the guides. Usingthe example in FIG. 8, the anode guide 490 does not come into directcontact with the neutralization anode 462 and the cathode guide 492 doesnot come into direct contact with the neutralization cathode 418. Insome embodiments, the guides described herein are offset from theircorresponding electrodes by a predetermined distance. In some examples,the predetermined distance that the guides are offset from theircorresponding electrodes is at least 1 mm or greater. If the guidesdescribed herein do not come into direct contact with theircorresponding electrodes, the surface area of the correspondingelectrodes remains exposed. With a greater surface area of theelectrodes exposed, the reactions that occur at the surface of theelectrodes (e.g., reactions shown in equations (4) and (5)) will occurmore readily.

For purposes of this disclosure, terminology such as “upper,” “lower,”“vertical,” “horizontal,” “inwardly,” “outwardly,” “inner,” “outer,”“front,” “rear,” and the like, should be construed as descriptive andnot limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter. Further, the useof “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof hereinis meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalentsthereof as well as additional items. Unless limited otherwise, the terms“connected,” “coupled,” and “mounted” and variations thereof herein areused broadly and encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings,and mountings. Unless stated otherwise, the terms “substantially,”“approximately,” and the like are used to mean within 5% of a targetvalue.

The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation ofthe present disclosure have been described in the foregoing description.However, aspects of the present disclosure which are intended to beprotected are not to be construed as limited to the particularembodiments disclosed. Further, the embodiments described herein are tobe regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. It will beappreciated that variations and changes may be made by others, andequivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of the presentdisclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all suchvariations, changes, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope ofthe present disclosure, as claimed.

What is claimed is:
 1. A neutralization cell for increasing a pH levelof a chlorine solution, the neutralization cell comprising: aneutralization anode; a neutralization cathode, wherein theneutralization anode and the neutralization cathode are positioned awayfrom walls of the neutralization cell to divide the neutralization cellinto a middle area between the neutralization anode and theneutralization cathode, an anode area on a side of the neutralizationanode furthest from the neutralization cathode, and a cathode area on aside of the neutralization cathode furthest from the neutralizationanode; an inlet configured to direct a chlorine solution into theneutralization cell by directing an incoming flow of the chlorinesolution into the anode area; and an outlet configured to direct thechlorine solution out of the neutralization cell by directing anoutgoing flow of the chlorine solution from the cathode area, whereinthe neutralization anode is non-solid and configured to permit thechlorine solution to flow through the neutralization anode from theanode area into the middle area and wherein the neutralization cathodeis non-solid and configured to permit the chlorine solution to flowthrough the neutralization cathode from the middle area into the cathodearea.
 2. The neutralization cell of claim 1, wherein the neutralizationanode is configured to cause a first reaction 2Cl⁻→Cl₂+2e⁻ to occur ator near a surface of the neutralization anode upon powering and whereinthe neutralization cathode is configured to cause a second reaction2H₂O+2e⁻→H₂+2OH⁻ to occur at or near a surface of the neutralizationcathode upon powering.
 3. The neutralization cell of claim 1, whereinthe non-solid neutralization anode and the non-solid neutralizationcathode are configured as at least one of a slotted electrode, a porouselectrode, a divided electrode, or a mesh electrode.
 4. Theneutralization cell of claim 1, further comprising: an anode guidelocated in the anode area and configured to direct a flow of thechlorine solution from the inlet across a length of the neutralizationanode.
 5. The neutralization cell of claim 4, wherein the length of theneutralization anode across which the anode guide directs the flow ofthe chlorine solution is in a range from at least half an entire lengthof the neutralization anode to the entire length of the neutralizationanode.
 6. The neutralization cell of claim 4, wherein the anode guidecomprises a plurality of separated projections distributed across thelength of the neutralization anode, each projection orientedapproximately perpendicular to, and extending away from, theneutralization anode.
 7. The neutralization cell of claim 6, whereineach projection has an end furthest from the neutralization anode whichis curved towards the inlet.
 8. The neutralization cell of claim 4,wherein the anode guide comprises a perforated separator, a meshedseparator, baffles, a grid, a plurality of particles, or a plurality offibers.
 9. The neutralization cell of claim 4, wherein the anode guidecomprises a perforated or meshed separator positioned approximatelyparallel to a surface of the neutralization anode or a plurality ofparticles or fibers filling at least a portion of the anode area. 10.The neutralization cell of claim 4, further comprising: a cathode guidelocated in the cathode area and configured to direct a flow of thechlorine solution from across a length of the neutralization cathodetoward the outlet.
 11. The neutralization cell of claim 10, wherein thecathode guide comprises a plurality of separated projections, aperforated separator, a meshed separator, baffles, a grid, a pluralityof particles, or a plurality of fibers.
 12. The neutralization cell ofclaim 10, further comprising: a middle guide located in the middle areaand configured to direct a flow of the chlorine solution across themiddle area from the length of the neutralization anode to the length ofthe neutralization cathode.
 13. The neutralization cell of claim 12,wherein the anode guide is located away from the neutralization anode byat least a predetermined distance, the cathode guide is located awayfrom the neutralization cathode by at least the predetermined distance,and the middle guide is located away from each of the neutralizationanode and the neutralization cathode by the predetermined distance. 14.The neutralization cell of claim 13, wherein the predetermined distanceis about 1 mm.
 15. An electrochemical activation system comprising theneutralization cell of claim 1, and a chamber cell separated from theneutralization cell, the chamber cell comprising an anode chamber and acathode chamber and configured to generate the incoming flow of thechlorine solution into the inlet via electrolysis.
 16. A method ofincreasing a pH level of a chlorine solution, the method comprising:causing a flow of a chlorine solution to pass through the neutralizationcell of claim 1, wherein the flow of the chlorine solution enters theneutralization cell in an anode area on a side of the neutralizationanode furthest from the neutralization cathode, passes through theneutralization anode, passes through a middle area between theneutralization anode and the neutralization cathode, passes through theneutralization cathode, and exits the neutralization cell from a cathodearea on a side of the neutralization cathode furthest from theneutralization anode; and powering the neutralization anode and theneutralization cathode while causing the flow of the chlorine solution,thereby increasing a pH level of the chlorine solution.
 17. The methodof claim 16, wherein powering the neutralization anode and theneutralization cathode causes a first reaction 2Cl⁻→Cl₂+2e⁻ to occur ator near a surface of the neutralization anode and a second reaction2H₂O+2e⁻→H₂+2OH⁻ to occur at or near a surface of the neutralizationcathode.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein products of the first andsecond reactions permit reactions to occur in the neutralization cell asfollows:Cl₂+2OH⁻→Cl⁻+Cl⁻+H₂O; andH⁺+OH⁻→H₂O.
 19. The method of claim 16, further comprising generatingthe flow of the chlorine solution entering the neutralization cell viaelectrolysis in a chamber cell separated from the neutralization cell,the chamber cell comprising an anode chamber and a cathode chamber. 20.The neutralization cell of claim 1, wherein the non-solid neutralizationanode and the non-solid neutralization cathode are each configured as aporous electrode.